A wildfire has broken out on the grassland surrounding Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), causing concern among travelers and airport staff.
According to the Kenya Red Cross, the fire has spread towards 75 Airport North Road. The Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) has confirmed the incident but assured the public that no critical airport infrastructure has been affected.
Footage and images obtained by newshub.co.ke show flames rapidly consuming dry grass near the airport’s runway. One video, recorded from inside a landing aircraft, clearly captures the fire burning dangerously close to the runway.
Firefighters and law enforcement officers have rushed to the scene to contain the blaze and prevent further spread.
KAA stated that emergency response teams from the Kenya Defence Forces, Nairobi County Fire Department, and the KAA Airport Rescue and Fire Fighting Service are actively battling the fire. Despite the situation, KAA has confirmed that airport operations are running smoothly.
“All flights, including takeoffs, landings, and passenger and cargo handling, remain unaffected,” KAA said in an official statement.
Meanwhile, several videos circulating online show crowds of Kenyans gathered outside the airport fence, watching as the fire rages on.
Authorities have not yet determined the cause of the fire. However, concerned citizens have taken to social media, urging emergency teams to put out the fire quickly, as JKIA is the busiest and most important airport in the country.
In a striking coincidence, this fire has erupted just after JKIA was honored with a prestigious global award. The airport was recently named African Cargo Airport of the Year at the STAT Times International Awards for Excellence in Air Cargo.
The Kenya Airports Authority celebrated this achievement, emphasizing that the award highlights JKIA’s significant role in boosting trade and logistics across Africa.
“This is a huge win for Kenya! Jomo Kenyatta International Airport has been crowned African Cargo Airport of the Year at the STAT Times International Awards for Excellence in Air Cargo,” KAA announced proudly.
They further stated, “This recognition underscores JKIA’s vital contribution to trade and logistics across Africa. It reflects our dedication to operational excellence and continuous improvement in cargo handling.”
The award was received by Dr. Rose Koros, JKIA’s General Manager, along with Jacob Bwana, Manager of Cargo, and Debra Ondaba, Manager of Product & Brand.
Join Gen Z official Whatsapp Channel To Stay Updated On time the ongoing situation https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaWT5gSGufImU8R0DO30
